Day 14 of our 47-day journey with Jesus to the cross.

Author & Voice: Carlos Montoya

In the garden, Judas identifies Jesus not with a weapon, but with a kiss—an act meant to signify love, now twisted into betrayal. While Judas cloaks deception in affection and calls Him “Rabbi,” Jesus responds by calling him “friend,” revealing a heart that moves toward sinners even in the moment of treachery. This episode exposes the deceptive nature of sin and magnifies the greater truth of the gospel: the kiss that led to the cross became the doorway through which Christ bore our sins and made reconciliation possible.

Scripture

1. Matthew 26:47-50

Reflection Questions

1. Why did I circle the words in this passage? What do they say about what God is speaking to me?
2. How have I sinned and tried to mask it behind something good?
3. How does Jesus’ response to this betrayal challenge my understanding of forgiveness?

Kid-Friendly Question

1. What is your definition of a friend? Jesus calls us friends. How does that make you feel?

Spiritual Practice - Prayer

Spend some time asking God to reveal areas in your life where you have sinned and have masked them behind an action that you are using to justify your sin. Once He reveals these to you, spend some time praying and thanking God for the forgiveness of sins. A great practice is journaling your prayers to God, as He will continue to speak to you and reveal more of Him and your sin in your life that He is asking you to give over to Him.